Finding the Cocktail Dress of your Dreams
Got a cocktail party coming up and wondering what to wear? Here are some easy fashion tips for channeling your inner Carrie Bradshaw and turning out the picture-perfect cocktail party ensemble, whether you’re looking ahead to the summer festive season or planning a Zoom date with the girls.
Decoded... The Cocktail Dress Code
How about a quick history lesson before we get to the juicier stuff? The term “cocktail dress” was first officially used by Vogue in 1927. It was soon embraced by major fashion brands and has been around ever since.
Cocktail attire is a semi-formal dress code used for late-afternoon and evening functions like weddings, fundraisers or high-end parties. It’s a dressy vibe with a little bit of sparkle, but it’s not overly formal. Simply put, cocktail attire means a knee-length dress and a cute pair of heels. If your other half is planning to join you, he should wear a nice suit that’s still a few steps down from a tux.
How to Style Cocktail Dresses
Do: Know Your Hemlines
How long should cocktail dresses be? Cocktail dress hemlines are on the shorter side, with mini or midi hemlines. A midi is preferable if you’re going to a work-related event. If you opt for a mini dress, keep it classy with a higher neckline, and steer clear of anything too flimsy or transparent.
Don’t: go overboard on the bling
The key here is to look polished but not overdressed. Accentuate your cocktail attire with a delicate amount of sparkle in either a hair accessory, earrings or a necklace
Do: Choose comfort and confidence
Cocktail dresses don’t have to be slinky figure-hugging little numbers; there are so many silhouettes to choose from, to flatter any type of figure. Look for fit-and-flare, A-line or wrap dresses in cocktail length and step out feeling like your best self.
Top Styles & Colours for the Season
The Little Black Dress is a timeless choice that will always be a hit at cocktail events. Don’t be afraid to mix it up though - there are so many colours and prints to suit all seasons. Spring Florals will add a touch of romance to a summery sunset cocktail do, while deep jewel tones and satin fabrics will look captivating at a late-night winter soirée.
